Basic Function and Applications of Polyglycerol Dendrimers

Abstract

Polyglycerol dendrimers (PGD) and hyperbranched polyglycerols (HPG) are known as biocompatible and hydrophilic soft materials as well as poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). However, the branched effect of PGD and HPG on bio-related functions is still unknown. In this review, recent progress of the research on PGD and HPG was introduced in the view points of both the basic characteristics and the bio-related applications. Hydrophobic character of PGD in water was analyzed by using a fluorescent probe, and PGD was found to provide less polar microenvironment than the aqueous environment. We also demonstrated the interaction between various guest molecules bearing amino groups and PGD and HPG, suggesting that both molecules bear good potentials as guest molecule-selective host molecules. In addition, protein interaction between PGD and some proteins were enhanced by the hydrophobic character of PGD. The PGD and HPG are believed to be developed toward industrial applications due to the unique chemical and biological functions.